All homeowner’s policies exclude earthquake, landslide and mudslide exposures.

Many companies, but not all, will add earthquake coverage to your homeowners policy for an additional cost. Landslide and mudslide can not be purchased at this time. All companies have either a 5% or 10% deductible based on the insured value of your home. For example if you have a $200,000 home and have a 10% earthquake deductible then you would be responsible for the first $20,000 in the event of a loss. While this seems to be a large amount it keeps the coverage affordable. The time to buy is before the ground starts shaking. Whenever there is a tremor of 5.0 or greater, most companies stop writing new coverage for up to 90 days after the event. To qualify your home foundation must be bolted to the foundation and your water heater must be strapped to the wall. Most policies exclude damage to brick and masonry exterior facing.

For more Earthquake Facts click here.